New MRI techniques to monitor prostate cancer treatment response

Hyperpolarized C-13 MRI Techniques to Monitor Radiation Therapy Response in Prostate Cancer Patients

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO · NIH-10866527

This study is looking at a new type of MRI that uses a special substance to help doctors see how prostate cancer patients are doing after radiation therapy, aiming to give a clearer picture of how the cancer is responding and to spot any remaining or worsening disease.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10866527 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates advanced MRI techniques using hyperpolarized carbon-13 pyruvate to monitor metabolic changes in prostate cancer patients after radiation therapy. The approach aims to provide a more accurate assessment of cancer response and detect any residual or progressive disease. By utilizing 3D imaging and combining it with multiparametric MRI, the study seeks to address the limitations of current imaging methods, which often fail to identify significant cancer activity post-treatment. This innovative technique could lead to better treatment outcomes and reduced side effects for patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are prostate cancer patients undergoing stereotactic body radiation therapy.

Not a fit: Patients with non-prostate cancers or those not receiving radiation therapy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved monitoring of prostate cancer treatment, allowing for more personalized and effective patient care.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies using hyperpolarized MRI techniques have shown promising results in detecting metabolic changes in cancer, indicating potential for success in this research.

Where this research is happening

SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Cancer Patient, Cancer Radiotherapy, Cancers

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.